Kutztown University’s women’s soccer program enters the 2026 campaign with a sense of momentum that has been building over the past two seasons. A 13‑6‑1 record in 2025, which included nine conference victories and a first‑round appearance in the NCAA Division II tournament, left the Golden Bears as PSAC runners‑up and set the stage for a fresh push.
A promising outlook
Coaches and players alike have embraced the preseason expectation of a second‑place finish in the East Division, a placement that reflects both the team’s pedigree and the ambition of head coach Erik Burstein.
The squad finished the previous season with a 13‑6‑1 overall record, nine conference wins, and a narrow loss in the first round of the NCAA Division II tournament, ending as PSAC championship runners‑up.
Core roster
Returning key contributors include goalkeeper Morgan O’Donnell, midfielders Alyssa Galayda and Mary Nangle, and sophomore forward Sarah Bronico, all of whom played pivotal roles in the 2025 campaign.
The roster also welcomes 13 newcomers, a blend of fresh talent and experienced transfers, who will add depth and competition as the team seeks to convert its preseason promise into tangible results.
Coach Erik Burstein’s impact
In his 19th year at the helm, Coach Burstein has guided the program to six conference title games and eight semifinal appearances, a testament to his sustained influence on the squad’s development and culture.
Opening schedule
The season will open on the road against Charleston, West Virginia, on August 28, before the team returns home for a PSAC East showdown with Shepherd on September 5. A home opener against East Stroudsburg follows on September 9, marking the first of several opportunities for the Bears to stake their claim in the conference race.
With a mixture of veteran leadership and youthful energy, Kutztown aims to capture its first PSAC championship under Burstein and to extend its postseason aspirations beyond the opening weeks.